Holiday Time. What is it all about? It’s all about the food, right? In my mind, it’s also about spiritual food. It is a time when as a believer in Jesus Christ, we think about and reflect on the birth of our Savior and what it means for all of humankind. I’m not going to delve into more of my thoughts on this aspect of the holiday season at this time though, as I can get into some deep theological discussions and we’re here to talk about food! There are other celebrations at this time of year including Hanukkah and Kwanzaa, although Christmas is probably the most common and known holiday, and of course the one in which we personally celebrate.

So, let’s focus on food! Now, keep in mind, although Pat & I have been running Chapel Estate Bed Breakfast for over 10 years, Pat is the foodie. I am not. Picture me writing a blog about food! Are you scared yet?! There are people that live to eat, while others eat to live. I would say that I am more in the latter category (OK, I do have a sweet tooth and love chocolate!).

When we talk about food around the holidays, what comes to mind first? Fine dining, company outings, scrumptious desserts, holiday meals with family and friends gathered around a large table or spread out throughout the house? Christmas cookies? All the food, the preparations, the gatherings with family and friends? It can be a time of large gatherings with traditions, school concerts, church events, spending more than we should on gifts to exchange. A time of busyness that includes joyous occasions and stressful moments at the same time. Truly a mixed bag. It can also be a time of loneliness, missing loved ones that have departed, or those whose jobs require duty, or the 1.3 million active duty military that may be deployed. Sorry. Let’s get back to the food!

Aside from the traditional meals; turkey, ham, potatoes, cranberry sauce, vegetables, and pumpkin pie, you may be one to explore other recipes. Now, I’m not here to give away all of Pat’s secrets, but she was willing to share a couple. One that’s been a favorite for many guests is the Gingerbread Buttermilk Waffles from Taste of Home. You can find many other great recipes on their web site as well!

Pat is always trying new recipes and has many sources that she depends on. She is constantly scouring over one of her many cookbooks or getting on line looking for different ideas to surprise our guests (or family!) with a new recipe! One of the other sources that is one of her many go to places is a magazine by Better Homes and Gardens that they put out titled, 100 Best Pumpkin Recipes. One to share with you from the magazine is the Pumpkin Cake Roll. Now this is of course more of a dessert, but when you visit us and we serve you breakfast, there’s always a dessert that will be waiting for you! I didn’t share the actual recipes in this blog, but the links are certainly there for you to click and download or print for your own enjoyment!

Enjoy this holiday season and if you do know of someone that may be alone or down, invite them to your gathering. It is the season of giving!